The proposed new bridge linking Detroit and Windsor is taking an important step today.
The Windsor Detroit Bridge Authority says it is asking for major contractors interested in building the multi-billion dollar Gordie Howe International Bridge to submit their qualifications.
That’s the first step in an 18 month process that will eventually see the authority narrow the list of potential private sector contractors to a small number. The finalists will be asked to submit their proposals for constructing the bridge.
The project is expected to attract consortiums of businesses with experience building and financing large projects from around the world.
The finalists could potentially come from the United States and Canada, or be made up of consortiums of companies from Europe, South America or the Pacific rim.
The final winner will be encouraged to work with local sub-contractors in the actual construction of the bridge.
"The issuance of the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) is much more than the first stage in the procurement process to select a private sector partner for the new bridge. It also demonstrates how Canada is working to strengthen its economy for the future,” says Lisa Raitt, Canadian Minister of Transport,
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder called today’s RFQ a “major step”.
“The span will be a transformational part of Michigan’s infrastructure, but also will serve as a symbol of the economic and cultural connection with our neighbors in Canada,” says Snyder.
Construction of the bridge is expected to be complete by 2020. The bridge is expected to cost $2.1 billion.
